I had one of my best cooking experiences in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I joined Chef Simone (Cook in Rio) in the kitchen where I learned a mix of Brazil´s favorite recipes in one fun cooking class.
It wasn’t just cooking, it was an experience. We didn’t just learn how to cook, we discovered exotic ingredients, techniques, flavors and learned more about Brazilian food culture, as well as the history.
I took the Seafood Moqueca class which included fish moqueca, White garlic rice, Banana toasted farofa, Flambeed sausage with onions, Grilled white cheese with pepper jam, Lime and Passionfruit caipirinha and Batida de Coco (coconut alcoholic drink).
Brazilian Food 
Brazilian Food 
Brazilian Food 
The highlight for me was discovering similarities between Brazilian food culture and African food. I also loved learning how to make the popular Caipirinha, which is Brazil’s national cocktail, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime.
This was all I drank in Rio – even in the club. 🙂
I believe one of the best ways to truly experience local culture when we travel is to try the food. Below, are some photos of my food adventures in Rio de Janeiro.
Do you try local food when you travel?
Note that its alcohol content is quite intense, especially when you purchase from street vendors who use cheap liquor.
Drink responsibly.
I had this buffet at Rio Sul Shopping Center.
It was interesting to see how the popular African Garri (made with cassava) was used to garnish the banana you see on the plate. We also used Palm Oil in this meal.
Interesting right? 🙂
Looks yummy. I am not adventurous with food at all – typically unless I find it appealing – I shall try that black beans via you only. LOL
Hahaha… I’m always open to experiencing food culture so far as it agrees with me.